Senior Chatter Winter 2020 - Archdiocese of Galveston
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Senior Chatter
Winter 2020
Who is Pope Francis? referred to as "no frills", noting that it is "his common
touch and accessibility that is proving the greatest inspi-
Born to Italian immigrants in Buenos Aires, Argentina, ration." On the night of his election, he took a bus back
on December 17, 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio became to his hotel with the other cardinals, rather than be driv-
Pope Francis on March 13, 2013 at the age of 76. Prior en in the papal car. In addition to his native Spanish,
to his election as pope, he served as archbishop of Bue- Francis is also conversant in Latin, Italian, Ger-
nos Aires. Bergoglio was the eldest of five children. As a man, French, Portuguese and English. Pope Francis has
young man, he underwent surgery to remove part of one chosen not to live in the official papal residence in
of his lungs due to serious infection. He graduated from the Apostolic Palace, but to remain in the Vatican guest
a technical school as a chemical technician before begin- house, in a suite in which he can receive visitors and
ning training at the Diocesan Seminary of Villa Devoto. hold meetings. He is the first pope since Pope Pius X to
In March 1958, he entered the novitiate of the Society live outside the papal apartments.
of Jesus. He was ordained as a priest in December He was named Person of the Year by Time magazine in
1969. He has said that initially, his mother did not sup- 2013. Pope Francis has embarked on a ten-
port his decision to enter the priesthood, despite the fact ure characterized by humility and outspoken support of
that she was a devout Catholic. By the time he was or- the world's poor and marginalized people, and has been
dained, however, she accepted his calling and asked for involved actively in areas of political diplomacy and en-
his blessing at the end of his ordination ceremony. vironmental advocacy.
As pope, his manner is less formal than that of his im- https://www.biography.com; https://en.wikipedia.org/
mediate predecessors: a style that news coverage has wiki/Pope_Francis
Words of Wisdom feel that we are not doing enough. But, if you are simp-
ly praying for others, whether it be a prayer you make
"Every pious desire, every good thought, every charita- up on your own, or pray the rosary, or whatever style of
ble work inspired by the love of Jesus, contributes to the prayer you feel comfortable with, then you are indeed
perfection of the whole body of the faithful. A person doing MORE for helping with the great work of saving
who does nothing more than lovingly pray to God for souls. Take time in your day to just simply be with God
his brethren, participates in the great work of saving in prayer, and HE indeed will hear your prayers for oth-
souls." ers. To me, that is the greatest gift you can give for oth-
ers—to simply pray for them. Those who may have
— Bl. Anne Catherine Emmerich
hurt you in some way, or for those who have fallen away
Brothers and sisters in Christ. This quote from Blessed from the Church, or those who deny the God who cre-
Anne Catherine Emmerich is very beautiful because of ated us. Just simply, PRAY!!
what she especially says in that last sentence: ”A person May the Sacred Heart of Jesus continue his good work
who does nothing more than lovingly pray to God for in you.
his brethren (you and I), participates in the great work
Pax Christi,
of saving souls."
Deacon Robert G. Stevens
You see, I know that many of us probably ask ourselves Spiritual Advisor, Central Senate
how can I do more, but because of my age or disability,
SENIOR SENATES
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
President - Delois Semien
We have had a wonderful year and are looking for-
President - Ella Ledet ward to the start a new decade. We had a good at-
tendance at our annual Recognition event, everyone
enjoyed it and looked very nice. Thank you for all
President - Gayle Naar
you do for our Senate.
Deloise Semien
SENIOR SENATE MEETING DATES
Dates subject to change on holidays.
CENTRAL:1st Monday of each month
St. Dominic Auditorium - 10 a.m. Our year has come to a close. This year has been a
2403 Holcombe Blvd. - Houston, TX 77021 year of remembrance good and bad times. I would
like to thank all the Offices for their support which
NORTHERN: 2nd Monday of each month
made the year successful. This was the first year
St. Charles Borromeo - 10 a.m.
501 Tidwell Rd, Houston, TX 77022 Recognition and Christmas Party combined. Recog-
nition and Christmas Party was a great success more
SOUTHWEST: Quarterly meetings:10 a.m.
St. Cyril of Alexandria Church people were in attendance.
10503 Westheimer Rd.- Houston, TX 77042
We would like to " Wish Everyone A Happy Holi-
day". Hope to see you on Jan 13,2020. God Bless.
OFFICE of AGING MINISTRY STAFF
Note: We will be meeting at St. Charles Borromeo
Director
Katherine Bingham, MPH, MNM Yours Truly
Kbingham@archgh.org Ella Ledet
Associate Directors
Vernita D. Metoyer— vmetoyer@archgh.org
Mark Ciesielski, MSW—mciesielski@archgh.org We have enjoyed a great year leading up to the
Administrative Assistant Recognition Banquet. It was a wonderful honor to
Gloria Portillo - gportillo@archgh.org special members for their service to our Parishes,
community and family. We had entertainment from
OFFICE of AGING Adriana Pruneda and keynote speaker Fr. Riccardo
2403 Holcombe Boulevard Arriola. My thanks for everyone in their efforts in
Houston, Texas 77021 planning of our Recognition Banquet, without these
Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. efforts it would not be possible for these events to
Phone: 713-741-8712 - Fax: 713-741-8775 happen. We are into the Christmas Season and it is
time again to remember the very special reason for
this season, we will be sending time visiting with
family and friends. Looking forward to 2020 of en-
joying time spent with all. Happy New Year.
Gayle Naar
Christ the Redeemer, Classics SACRED HEART, Richmond
During the summer the Classics attended an Astros
Golden Hearts
game and were treated to a win. We had great seats and
enjoyed hotdogs and peanuts and whatever breavage we We had a Games Day in October, making good use of
our jars of coins. With three quarters, we played Left,
wanted. The local playhouse entertained us with the pro-
Right, Center; nickels helped us cover Bingo cards.
duction of “Steel Magnolias’”, in Sept. Never seem to Our group had a lot of fun, and enjoyed a delicious
tire of that classic play. We look forward to cooler weath- lunch which was provided. In November we took a
er as we journey to Washington on the Brazos in Oct. tour of the new Fort Bend County Sheriff Administra-
and the Railean Rum Distillery in Nov. A fun-filled tive offices and county jail facilities. After the tour, we
had lunch at in the officer's dining room. We wrapped
Christmas theme in Dec. with a catered Italian meal fol-
up our year with a Christmas carol sing-along and
lowed by our Youth Choir leading us in Christmas Car- lunch at Olive Garden.
ols. Later in the month we take a bus ride to view
Pat Miller
Christmas lights ending with a delicious meal. No longer
will we share in a “covered dish meal” at our monthly
meals; instead we will “brown-bag”, visit and play games.
ST. IGNATIUS LOYOLA,
Looking forward to winter projects.
Senior Friends
Fredna Kilcommins
At our November meeting, we had a delicious turkey
St. Helen, Super Seniors dinner with all the trimmings. Thank You to our hos-
pitality committee as always! The guest speaker at the
2019 has about come to an end and our 2020 officers luncheon was Mr. Kent Clingerman of Precinct 4, tell-
have been elected. The seniors have had a great year. ing us about the many activities of the “Encore Out-
Our trip chairman arranged for us to go to Hemi reach Community Program.”
Hideout, which was wonderful; then on a trip to
Brookwood Community to view the Christmas decora- Our Senior trip included a visit to “Magical Winter
tions which were spectacular—there was food along the Lights” in LaMarque and to the Crighton Theatre in
way. In November, we had our Thanksgiving Pot-luck Conroe to see “Best Christmas Pageant Ever” on
luncheon and as you know these seniors can really cook; stage. Both events were very enjoyable.
it was delicious. We were entertained by Roger Woest
We are closing 2019 with a potluck Christmas din-
with an amazing Christmas music program. We had our
ner. Members will bring their favorite dish. Enter-
scrumptious Christmas luncheon at Monument Inn.
WOW what a perfect way to end the year. Now it’s time tainment will be the signing duo of “Leo and Doris.”
to go on a healthy diet. We wish everyone a very Merry We wish everyone a “Bright and Happy 2020 New
Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please stay healthy Year!” Please remember all Seniors in your prayers.
and safe.
God Bless Sarah Doyle
Ginger Shea
Christ the Good Shepherd
Celebrated fall with a successful bake sale at our Fall Festival! Thank you one and all! BBQ baked potatoes and a
movie followed as Halloween approached. Change in the weather cancelled our November trip but monthly Fun
Day of Bingo continues to be a favorite. Then, time to sign up for dine-out groups for January - a great way to
meet and get to know fellow members once a month. All are looking forward to our Advent Celebration and at-
tending the NSS luncheon. CGS 55 Plus will recognize Louis Meyer for his contributions to not only 55 Plus but
CGS. May God's Peace and Love surround you in the New Year.
Helen Moorman
ST. CATHERINE of SIENA
The Fourth Quarter turned out great. In October our guest was Danielle Schaff, author of funny books about us
Catholics and the things we do and believe in. Our November guest was Dan Worral, an historian, who told us
what Houston/Galveston was like thousands of years ago and how it gradually became what it is today. To cap it
all off we had our 3rd Annual Catered Christmas Luncheon with Entertainment in December. Sixty two people
attended, the most yet. "The Great Pretenders" trio entertained us with a mix of Christmas songs and some oldies.
Lot of folks were up dancing, especially for "The Twist". Looking forward to 2020. Merry Christmas to all.
Bob Mitchell
St. Cyril of Alexandria Savvy Seniors ST. LEO the GREAT, Guys + Dolls
Service to others is essential. This quarter Nelly Esquivel We suffer a great loss on July 4th, 2019 when our dear
brought clothing for the ladies at Angela House and Mi- treasurer Paul Rozycki went to be with our heavenly
chael Leanos’ clothing will help men at Isaiah House. father. Our condolences to his wife Louise and his
In September, G.G. Pierce from the Better Business Bu- children and their families. Rest in Peace dear friend.
reau told us about skimming in restaurants, the Grand- Please keep Charles Bukowski in your prayers he is at
parent Scam, and the Mattress Scam. Checking our Med- home recovering from a stroke. Praying for Margaret
icare Statements and requesting receipts to verify actual
and her family. We had a presentation by Mark Ciesiel-
costs of purchased items is critical. In October, Mario
Gallegos, from the Houston Fire Department spoke ski from the Office of Aging on Benefits for Veterans.
about smoke detectors and ways HFD assists seniors. Thanks to all the Guys and Dolls who helped with the
At our Thanksgiving Pot Luck, Kathy Griffith, a music refreshment and hospitality. We had thanksgiving
teacher, led a sing along by using various memory chal- lunch at Doss Park. Congratulations to our outstand-
lenging techniques. She taught some sign language and ing couple, Paul and Linda Mitchell. They have been
we signed the last song of her presentation. Christmas parishioners at St. Leo’s church for a very long time
carols were led by Fred Clay with his enthusiastic guitar and are very active in the church. Thanks to the NSS
strumming at our Christmas Pot Luck.
and the Office of Aging for the Recognition and
Sister Rosalie Karstedt spoke about Advent and that Christmas luncheon at Shirley Acres. The lunch was
Christmas is about the 1st coming of Jesus; how are we delicious and entertainment very enjoyable. Hope eve-
preparing for the 2nd Coming of Jesus? rybody has a Merry Christmas and happy New Year.
Suggested reading: Everything You Ever Wanted to Prayers for all that are suffering from illness and for
Know about Heaven—But Never Dreamed of Ask- our deceased family and friends and for our troops.
ing by Peter Kreeft
Carolyn Montes
Rosa Espinosa
ASSUMPTION, Harvest Years
Many of our members attended the NSS Recognition Dinner to celebrate with our most deserving Honoree, Leo
Landry. The 40th Anniversary of our organization celebration on November 24th began with a delicious, traditional
Thanksgiving luncheon followed by a moving Memorial Service for our deceased members. Special emphasis was
given to 2019 deceased members: Cliff Wilhite, Carl Lane, LaNelle Murray and Annie Mae Jebousek. Since that
event, Lucille York and Verna Wagner passed away—may they rest in peace. The Christmas Luncheon/Meeting
was held on December 15th and 2020 officers elected. As in our childhood, bags of oranges, apples and candy were
given to each member. The “Strings & Things” ensemble entertained us with symphonic music. Please pray for
those who are ill, their caregivers, and for all the suffering, those departed, those unemployed, and for our service
men and women. Pray for our leaders for Divine guidance. We hope you all had a joy-filled Christmas Season
and we hope you have a Blessed and Happy New Year!
Trudy WitzkoskeCaregiving and Driving Concerns
When my older brother pressed me to talk to my father about some driving concerns, I prayed
that I could be both understanding and respectful. My dad, like many older adults, enjoyed the
autonomy that driving afforded him. I was fortunate to have a father who was willing to discuss
our family’s concerns and recognize the potential harm his driving could have to himself and to
others. Using a close-to-home example of an elderly priest friend who blacked out and was killed while driving, it
brought the reality home to my father. He reluctantly hung up his keys and sold his car. But there are those per-
sons at the highest safety risk who refuse to admit any problems or discuss the situation.
As people age and their vision, hearing, and reaction time changes, there can be driving occasions when confusion,
a distraction, or even a minor irritant might jeopardize their safety and the safety of others. Caregivers, whether
children, spouses, or other loved ones are those who must address these driving concerns. Be mindful that there is
no one-size-fits all approach.
Here are some suggestions/resources to address the concerns in a respectful manner:
Start the conversation before a serious accident occurs
Use news reports or a story of older drivers’ accidents as a conversational starter
Stick to the facts (e.g., accidents, close calls, dents in the car) to address your concerns
Avoid responding to angry reactions
Provide alternative driving support from family, church, or neighbors
Emphasize the financial savings with auto maintenance and insurance
Enlist the support of the person’s family doctor to explain why the action is necessary
See the Texas Department of Public Safety driving regulations for adults 79+ years old
https://www.dps.texas.gov/driverlicense/elderlydrivers.htm
See tips for evaluating and improving driving skills or creating a driver plan agreement
https://seniordriving.aaa.com/resources-family-friends/conversations-about-driving/
Seniors in Parish Leadership Roles: Communication
Our aging adults on our parish senior group executive teams, and in leadership roles teach us how to be
better and more efficient communicators. Seniors can take us back to the “Old School” way of communication:
phone calls vs. Emails/Texting. Our seniors that are not as technology savvy as others, prefer calling our office
and activating their calling tree instead. This gives us the subtle reminder that hearing a voice on the other line can
be soothing to the soul for both parties, and it also prevents misunderstandings.
“Thank you notes” vs. commercial cards: We love receiving handwritten notes in the mail. Commercial
cards are nice but there’s something sincere about handwritten notes/cards. These notes are more personable and
heartfelt. Seniors that take the time to write these notes, remind us of the kindness genuine thoughts can bring.
Face-to-face vs. Telephone Calls: We are truly blessed to see most of our parish senior group members at
their parish meetings, senate meetings, recognition programs, and holiday festivities. To share experiences face-to-
face gives us the chance to see and sense the emotional eminence of our seniors and make sure they are truly okay
and thriving. To have them share their personal and family stories validates their ability to share, and our ability to
honor their significance in conversation.
Psalms 51:10 - Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Vernita Metoyer, Associate DirectorPRINCE of PEACE, Keenagers ST. PETER CLAVER, Golden Harvest Friendship Club
Recognition Luncheon was held on Nov 8. Our outstanding
Our Prince of Peace Keenagers have enjoyed members were Eva Carroll and Evelyn Despania. Oct 9 we
guest speakers and entertainment after our meet- went to Precinct II fun day gathering. Oct 26 we attended the
ings followed by enjoyable lunches. Our trip
Hispanic Heritage Breakfast. Oct 20 we went to Kemah
coordinator has done a fabulous job setting up
many interesting trips. We will start the New Boardwalk, fish market and had lunch at Landry’s. Oct 31 we
Year with installation of officers. We anticipate a went to Precinct II Halloween Party. Nov 5 we had our pre
fun-filled year with new members, great speak- Thanksgiving dinner. We had plenty of good food and we
ers, fabulous trips, Bingo and great food. played bingo for prizes. Every last Friday of the month we go
We meet the second and fourth Thursday at
to Northeast Senior Center to play bingo. Have a Merry
10 am.
God bless, Barbara Heath Christmas and Happy New Years Martha Gardner
ST. ANDREW, Double Nickel
It's been a busy fall season for our club. We attended the Hometown Opry in Pasadena Texas for a performance
of 50's music. Our next trip took us to Tomball to view old historic houses at the Tomball Museum and visit the
Tomball Railroad Station. We held our annual craft and bake sale in November. We had a speaker come from the
RSVP program to give a talk on Medicare fraud. We toured the Magical Winter Lights display for a great time
looking at the themed lantern exhibits and watching Chinese acrobats perform. Some members attended the
Lyondell Senior Christmas Party. We are looking forward to the upcoming County Christmas Party and our own
Christmas Party. On a sad note, Melba Ortiz a long time member passed away. Wishing all a Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year. Lucy Broadway
ST. BENEDICT the ABBOT, Go-Getters
Season Greetings Everyone! May we all have a wonderful, spiritual, fun-filled Christmas & New Year. First Sun-
day in November, our Seniors paid tribute to our deceased members with our Memorial Mass; on the first Sunday
of December we joined together for Seniors Mass, receiving a group blessing from our priest. We wore our signi-
fying Angels, but that did not stop all of the senior citizens attending the Mass on that Sunday morning from
coming up and getting their blessings also. A fantastic moment! Our Christmas party on December 11 th gave us a
wonderful time to fellowship with good food, music and bingo with many winners and prizes! Everyone attending
had a great time. Wishing all a Very Merry Christmas! Dorothy Allen
ST. JUDE THADDEUS, St. Jude’s Dudes ST. Mary the PURIFICATION,
Seniors in Action Chatter News
In October we helped the CDA hand out white
ribbons against pornography at all the masses. We welcomed members who faithfully attend our meetings.
We also had a bake sale to benefit our local food The annual Recognition dinner was an amazing success and
pantry. In November we collected warm clothing very well attended; everyone is still talking about it. We have
for our annual coat drive for the needy. We con- lost a number of parishioners these past few months; may
tinue to enjoy our monthly socials. We attend they rest in peace. Our seniors enjoyed a delicious Christmas
mass, we have coffee and sweets, play bingo end dinner with lots of fellowship. We attended our parish Christ-
with a covered dish luncheon. The Dudes want mas Eve play. We wish everyone good health and a Happy
to wish a speedy recovery to our dear members New Year.
Angie Z. and Carolyn Butler. Peace pray for
world peace. Irene Goedrich
Johnnie Mae Roy2020 Annual Day of Prayer
“Faith in the Midst of the Storm”
March 3, 2020
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mass 10:30 a.m.
St. Andrew’s Catholic Church-Channelview, TX
827 Sheldon Road Channelview, Texas 77530
Parish: ___________________________________
Group: ___________________________________
Contact Name: __ __________________________
Contact Phone: ____________________________
1). _____________________________________
Registration Deadline:
February 14, 2020
2). _____________________________________
$15.00 per ticket
3). _____________________________________ Make checks payable to:
4). _____________________________________ Northern Senior Senate
5). _____________________________________ Mail registration form & ticket payment to:
Cheryl Domurat
6). _____________________________________
6422 Cobble Manor Lane, Spring TX 77379
If you need additional information please contact:
Ella Ledet: 713-633-0535
SHRINE of TRUE CROSS, Adventurous Seniors
Hello.... This is our first attempt at writing to CHATTER.... Adventurous Seniors has been in existence for sev-
eral years and it is time to introduce our group.
Adventurous Seniors is in Shrine of True Cross Parish. We invite all seniors regardless of faith to meet with us
monthly at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Dickinson. The purpose of the group is prayer, support, and to en-
joy the company of those who choose to participate in our activities.
Monthly morning Mass with breakfast afterward, lunches and dinners, speakers, field and gambling trips are just a
smidgen of our activities. We went to SANTA'S WONDERLAND in College Station and are in the process of
planning a "biggie" to Branson in June. This will be a cheap and fun trip, only $700 for everything except for
lunch meals and personal purchases. A $75 deposit is due by February 4 and the final $625 payment by April
4. If 42 or more sign up for this trip ONE person will WIN their trip. For information contact Rose Harris at
281-337-1949, email, rmhcts@aol.com, text 409-218-4295 by January 24. Tell your friends and family about this
exciting venture. Rose Harris
ST. MAXIMILIAN KOLBE, Kolbe Seniors
Kolbe Seniors try to keep as active as possible. We continue to meet every third Friday of every month. Luby’s
provides a great catered lunch. In October we attended a free U.S. Army Concert Band & Soldiers Chorus at
Klein Collins High School. In November we visited the new Holocaust Museum. It was an awesome experience.
In December we traveled to Navasota to watch a play: “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. We also traveled to Cham-
pion Forest Baptist Church to watch their Christmas Special. It was spectacular. We continue to collected several
items for Casa Juan Diego. “MERRY CHRISTMAS” & “HAPPY NEW YEAR”!
Elva AdameHOLY FAMILY, Missouri City
Golden Friendship Club
In November we had a memorial Mass to remember all of our
members that have passed away. Afterwards, we enjoyed a
VALENTINE DANCE catered Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings! We also
FEBRUARY 6, 2020 had some of our members meet for our monthly lunch at a
1:30-4:30 p.m. restaurant. At both our November and December meetings,
ANNUAL DAY of PRAYER members brought items for our St. Vincent de Paul Society to
St. Andrews Channelview distribute to those less fortunate. We also made a monetary
MARCH 3, 2020 donation to St. Vincent de Paul for Thanksgiving and Christ-
mas.
CSS Game Day At our December meeting, we had potluck with tamales. We
JUNE 1, 2020 (TBA) recognized all who had a November or December birthday or
anniversary and everyone enjoyed Christmas music, bingo, a
NSS FUN DAY
raffle, and door prizes for all.
AUGUST 11, 2020 (TBA)
SWS Game Day Gwen Reinke and John Johnson
JULY 22, 2020
ST. CYRIL - 9:30 A.M. ST. MATTHEW the EVANGELIST
We lost another “old” member, Evelyn Ahlcorim she will be
missed and condolences to her family. Our annual festival was
a success. Our 50+ booth did very well thank you to Janie and
Leonard Guerrero for working so hard and to all the 50+
members who contributes in any way to its success. Our trip to
George Bush library will be rescheduled. We will be going to
see “Miracle on 34th Street” December 6th. New officers were
FEBRUARY 6, 2020 picked for 2020- President Janie Guerrero, Vic President
Kathy Cook, Secretary Jimmie Jennings, and Treasurer Virginia
St. Dominic Center Neiser. Our Holiday luncheon began with mass and then to
Auditorium our catered meal by Luby’s. We finished off the great party
2403 Holcombe Blvd. with entertainer, Rey Harris from (Beaumont) and the Grand
Houston, Texas 77021 ole Liberty Opry. We are looking forward to the recognition
1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. for our outstanding couple Maria and Daniel Bosquez.
Remember to keep Christ in Christmas. It will be a year since
Sponsored by The Office of Aging
my husband Bill passed away Christmas Eve morning one day
and St. Dominic Village
short of Christmas Day (his birthday) miss you and love you
713-741-8712
always. Put God #1 in our lives and you will always be happy
God Bless
Please rsvp. by February 1, 2020
Helen Pidany“The Cistern” at Buffalo Bayou Park
The Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern is a former drinking water
reservoir built in 1926 for the City of Houston. As one of the
city’s early underground reservoirs, it supported the municipal
water system’s goals of fire suppression (water pressure) and
drinking water storage. After operating for decades, an irrepa-
rable leak was discovered and the reservoir was decommis-
sioned in 2007. This structure has been repurposed into a
magnificent public space to house an ambitious program of
changing art installations. Consider “The Cistern” for one of
your group outings.
Tours: capacity is 30 people.
Thursdays and Fridays every half hour from 1-5:30pm
Saturdays and Sundays every half hour from 11am-5:30pm
Cost: $5/person (no children under the age of 9 permit-
ted) for a 30-minute, guided tour.
Free on Thursdays, but reservations are still required.
ADA compliant walkway with guardrails.
Parking: A number of parking options are available around
Buffalo Bayou Park.
Visit https://buffalobayou.org/visit/destination/the-cistern/
or call 713-752-0314 ext. 301 for reservations or additional
information
Veterans History Project
The Veterans History Project (VHP) of the American Folk life Center of the Library of Con-
gress collects, preserves, and makes accessible the personal accounts of American veterans
so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities
of war and military service.
VHP collects and preserves the firsthand interviews and narratives of United States military
veterans from World War I through the present of any veteran who served in active military service and who was
discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.
In addition to audio- and video-recorded oral history interviews, VHP accepts memoirs and collections of origi-
nal photographs, letters, diaries, maps and other historical documents from veterans who served in the US armed
services from World War I through the present. VHP also collects oral histories with Gold Star Family mem-
bers—a parent, spouse, sibling, or child of members of the Armed Forces who died as a result of their service
during a period of war.
Individual volunteers and volunteers from organizations interview veterans and collect first person stories from
the veteran. The interview is an unedited audio/video recording. The veteran receives the original video with a
copy sent to the Library of Congress to be added to the VHP collection.
For more information about the Veterans History Project contact the Library of Congress at www.loc.gov/vets.You can also read
